February 18, 2009
BowTech Archery is recalling about 8,000 "The General" compound bows. The ends of the bow's limbs can unexpectedly break during use and send fragments of the bow in the direction of the user or bystanders, posing a risk of injury.
The firm has received 255 reports of the bow's limbs breaking, including 11 reports of lacerations, abrasions, or contusions when pieces from the breaking bow struck the user.
This recall involves the 'The General' compound bows hunting and target models with draw weights of 60 and 70 pounds that do not have a collet (see illustration below) in the limb. The bows measure about 31 inches long and have draw lengths of 26-30 inches. Hunting models were sold in real tree and mossy oak camouflage patterns. Target models were sold in gray, black, and wood-grain. The bows have laminated wood grips engraved with the word 'BowTech' and a label with 'The General' on the center pivot point of the bottom limb.
The bows, made in the United States, were sold at authorized BowTech Dealers nationwide from September 2007 through July 2008 for about $800.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled bows and contact their dealer to schedule a free repair.
For more information, contact BowTech Archery at (888) 689-1289 anytime or visit the company's Web site at www.bowtecharchery.com.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
